Academic Career & Executive Search is pleased to assist Fort Hays State University in its search for Director of Human Resources. 

For full consideration, please apply by April 10, 2025. 

Fort Hays State University (FHSU) is looking for a Director of Human Resources (Director) to help drive HR strategy in a forward-thinking, innovative institution with global reach. Working closely with senior leadership, the Director will play a key role in shaping institutional policies. In addition to a traditional on campus faculty, staff, and student population, this position offers an expansive impact beyond campus, as FHSU continues to lead in distance education and engage with a robust online and international student body and workforce, including multiple international partners. FHSU is deeply committed to innovation, collaboration, and student success. In July 2024, the university expanded its impact by joining a Strategic Affiliation with Fort Hays Tech | North Central and Fort Hays Tech | Northwest, further strengthening educational opportunities across the region.

With a strong, dedicated and experienced team already in place, the Director will be well supported in providing leadership across human resources, employee relations, academic appointments, payroll, student employment, performance management, benefits, and other employment matters. This role oversees a team of eight employees, including recruitment, student employment, payroll, HR operations, and organizational development staff. The ideal candidate is a highly collaborative leader who builds relationships at all levels to drive HR initiatives. The Director is responsible for clearly communicating and interpreting HR policies, federal and state laws, and regulations while maintaining confidentiality, sound judgment and discretion in handling sensitive matters. 

This position reports to the VP of Finance and Administration.  

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Lead and manage the Human Resource Department and ensure efficient processing of HR systems. Empower the HR team to create best practices, share ideas and hold the team accountable for creating solutions that continue to unify the system around all elements of the function Develop, implement and manage a human resources strategic plan that incorporates HR programs to address and solve business needs and long-term objectives of the University  
• Manage and provide guidance on the university’s employee benefits programs, serving as the primary liaison with vendors and brokers who deliver these services  
• Collaborate with key stakeholders and assist leadership with the development of staffing models that will provide the optimal resource needs for the university  
• Contribute to the design and implementation of performance evaluation systems and job descriptions that contribute to the compensation structure and personnel requirements for the state 
• Design and implement an effective communication and feedback system for human resources that strengthens employee engagement and is responsive to the overall informational needs of the workforce  
• Identify trends and proactively recommend solutions to improve performance, retention, and the employee experience  
• Manage and ensure timely updates to the employee handbook, HR policies and procedures. Perform reviews of policies to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations  
• Coordinate the human resources technology systems – Human resource information system, talent acquisition system, and learning management system. Lead efforts to develop technology solutions for enhanced business processes and procedures
• Manage the professional development and training opportunities for selected departments and the University  
• Provide guidance to management on personnel issues, interpretation of personnel policies, and employment laws and regulations. As applicable, oversee employee disciplinary meetings, terminations and investigations  
• Oversee essential compensation and payroll functions for University employees   
• Manage the annual contracting processes with University employees 
• Develop and monitor appropriate recruiting and hiring strategies 
• Placing empathy and customer service at the core of all HR activities  
• Developing and maintaining the HR departmental budget, taking care to align resources with departmental and university-wide strategic objectives 
• Ensuring institutional compliance with state and federal employment laws and regulations 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively, independently and as a member of a team, especially in a fast-paced, highly dynamic environment  
• Extensive knowledge of employment laws related to FLSA, FMLA, ADA, EEO, worker’s compensation and other relevant legislation
• Demonstrated ability to effectively manage relationships with external vendors and related parties 
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with both internal and external constituents, including Board members and audit firms  
• Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times
• Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems  
• Adaptability/Flexibility - Requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace  
• Time Management & Organizing, Planning & Prioritizing Work - Managing one's own time and the time of others and developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work  
• Database user interface - Comfortable using technology and is adaptable to quickly learning new software  
• Computer skills- Proficient in cloud-based HRIS applications (Workday experience is preferred) 
• Proficient with e-mail and cloud-based document systems (e.g., Office 365 applications) 
• Highly proficient with standard word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration or a related field 
• At least five (5) years of human resource management and supervisory experience
• In-depth knowledge of federal and state employment and benefits laws including FLSA, FMLA, ACA, COBRA, Defined Contribution Plans and Tax Deferred Annuity Plan  

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS 

• Master’s degree
• HR-related certification (PHR or SHRM-CP Certification)  
• Human resource management experience in higher education

About the Institution

Founded in 1902 as the Western Branch of Kansas State Normal School, Fort Hays State University has grown into a regional leader as a comprehensive public university offering more than 200 degree programs across various disciplines, including business, education, nursing, technology, and the liberal arts. With a student body of over 12,000, including a significant number of online learners, the university provides a flexible and accessible education tailored to both traditional and non-traditional students. The Fort Hays State University model offers affordable, flexible, and challenging academic programs through in-person programs in Hays and worldwide through FHSU Online plus a network of International Partnership campuses making it an excellent choice for working professionals, military personnel, and those seeking a flexible learning experience.

Beyond academics, FHSU provides a vibrant campus experience with over 100 student organizations, NCAA Division II athletics, and a welcoming community in Hays. The university emphasizes hands-on learning, career preparation, and real-world experience, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for their careers. With strong job placement rates and a focus on innovation, Fort Hays State University continues to be a top choice for students seeking quality education at an affordable cost.
 
Living in the Area

Living in Hays, Kansas, offers a unique blend of small-town charm, affordability, and modern conveniences. Home to approximately 20,000, Hays serves as a regional hub in western Kansas, providing residents with a high quality of life at an affordable cost. With over 60 restaurants, major retail outlets, a low unemployment rate, and very short commute times, the city provides a safe, welcoming, low-cost, high-quality living environment for the residents who call "Hays, America" home.

Located halfway between Kansas City and Denver along Interstate 70, Hays is easily accessible and offers a wide range of outdoor recreational activities, from extensive walking, running, and biking trails to the Center for Health Improvement, Hays Aquatic Park, Smoky Hill Country Club, and Hays Municipal Golf Course. Hays is also within 45 minutes of two large lakes that offer great opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping. The Hays Municipal Airport provides convenient connecting service to Denver with several flights daily.

Hays stands out for its low crime rate and top-rated public Pre-K, K-12, and private schools, making it a great place to raise a family. Overall, Hays provides a perfect balance of small-town comfort with modern amenities, making it an appealing place to live, work, and study.

To Apply 

For full consideration, please apply by April 10.

Please apply through the application link and do not email applications. 

Applications will be reviewed as they are received and should include a cover letter and curriculum vita. Ideally cover letters should not exceed two pages. All applications are treated confidentially.

Inquiries, referrals, and nominations are also treated confidentially.

Inquiries and questions: Please send to FHSUHRDirector@acesrch.com.
Nominations and referrals: Please send the nominee’s name, title, and contact information if available to nominations@acesrch.com.

Institutional Information:
Notice of Non-discrimination: Fort Hays State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, religion, national origin, color, age, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic information, disability or veteran status.
Background Check: Final candidate will have consented to and successfully completed a criminal background check.
Notice to KPERS retirees applying for a position: Recent legislation changes working-after-retirement rules for both you and your employer if you go back to work for a KPERS employer. Please contact your KPERS representative or www.kpers.org for further information on how this might affect you.